Skoda Rapid 1.0 TSI to launch with manual gearbox only

The Skoda Rapid is all set to go on sale in BS6 form, armed with a new 1.0-litre turbo-petrol engine. Bookings for the Rapid have been open since mid-March. However, in a new update, we can confirm that the Rapid 1.0 TSI will initially be offered only with a 6-speed manual transmission. The option of a 6-speed torque converter automatic gearbox will only be added to the line-up after a few months, likely ahead of the festive season. Interestingly enough, the Rapid’s cousin from Volkswagen, the Vento, has been launched with the 110hp/175Nm 1.0 TSI engine with both manual and automatic gearbox options.

The updated Rapid will be among the first cars to launch in India once the lockdown ends. Skoda had started accepting bookings on the payment of Rs 50,000, though the booking amount was subsequently reduced to Rs 25,000. Expect Rapid manual prices to range from Rs 8.7- 11.7 lakh, undercutting equivalent Ventos by about Rs 15,000.

The 2020 Skoda Rapid’s line-up will initially comprise five trims - Active, Ambition, Onyx, Style and Monte Carlo. Like the BS4 model, the Rapid Active will be the entry-level model and will only be available in Candy White and Carbon Steel exterior colour options. The Rapid Ambition and Style variants will have four colours options on offer - Brilliant Silver, Toffee Brown, Candy White and Carbon Steel. The Rapid Onyx, which will share its features list and safety kit with the mid-spec Ambition, will have just two colour options - white and Lapiz Blue. The range-topping Rapid Monte Carlo will also only be available in two exterior finishes, the aforementioned Candy White and Flash Red.

Expect more information about the BS6-compliant Rapid TSI to trickle out closer to its launch, which is expected soon after lockdown ends. Skoda has only just opened bookings for the Superb facelift as well, though bookings for the Karoq SUV had commenced earlier in March.